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Bible Pathway - May 17, 2016

David forbidden to build the Temple; God makes a Covenant with David; his prayer; God extends David’s kingdom

Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the LORD do that which is good in His sight (I Chr. 19:13).

Joab and his brother, Abishai, were two of David's best soldiers. They had both served in great battles with David against powerful enemies. Joab in particular had been a close aide and advisor to David.

Two great armies were coming against Israel. Syria and the children of Ammon had surrounded them on every side. The two brothers divided the fighting men of Israel in two divisions. Joab and his army would face the Syrians on one side. While, Abishai and his army would face the children of Ammon.

The words spoken by Joab to his brother contain a great lesson for us as believers today. He told Abishai that if the children of Ammon are defeating him that he would come to his aid. Likewise, if the Syrians were overtaking Joab, Abishai would help his brother.

Joab then offers words of encouragement to his brother. In this verse, he challenges Abishai to be brave and to show his valor. He tells him to allow the Lord to work His will. And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God (Rom. 8:27).

Most of us will not be in this same situation, though, many men and women who serve in the military to defend their country could be. Every believer at times will face warfare of a different kind. It can be every bit as serious, as this warfare has at it's outcome the eternal destination of the souls of mankind. This warfare is spiritual in nature. For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds) (II Cor. 10:3-4).

At these times of spiritual conflict, we could certainly use a brother or sister in Christ to speak as Joab did. We as believers need to try to help those who are going through battles. We should let them know that God can get them through this trial. Our words could be what draws a lost person to Christ or helps a fellow believer work their way through the valley. Let us all strive to be a help to those God places in our way.

then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves (Rom. 15:1).

Thought for Today:

Today, we should ask the Lord as the disciples did “Lord, teach us to pray”.

Christ Portrayed:

By David, the shepherd-king (I Chr. 17:7; comp. Matt. 1:1-2; Rom. 1:3), symbolic of Christ as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) and King of saints (all believers) (Rev. 15:3).